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The Theme Building: LAX's Retro-Futuristic Icon
A Space Age icon at LAX, the Theme Building's futuristic design and parabolic arches capture the spirit of mid-century modern architecture and innovation.
The Theme Building at Los Angeles International Airport is a landmark structure embodying the Space Age design. Built in 1961, its distinctive flying saucer shape and parabolic arches make it a quintessential example of Googie architecture, a style influenced by car culture, jet travel and the Atomic Age.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to The Theme Building
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
201 World Way, Los Angeles, Westchester, California, 90045, US
Monday
7 am-8:30 pm
Tuesday
7 am-8:30 pm
Wednesday
7 am-8:30 pm
Thursday
7 am-8:30 pm
Friday
7 am-8:30 pm
Saturday
7 am-8:30 pm
Sunday
7 am-8:30 pm
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Getting There
Walking
The Theme Building is located in the center of LAX, easily accessible from all terminals. After exiting your terminal on the arrivals level, follow the signs directing you towards the central area of the airport. The Theme Building is situated in the middle of World Way, the main loop road that circles the terminals. Pedestrian walkways and crosswalks provide safe passage to the building. Note that direct pedestrian access to the Theme Building may be limited due to security considerations.
Public Transport
To reach the Theme Building via public transport, take the Metro C Line or K Line to the LAX/Metro Transit Center. From there, use the free LAX shuttle to reach the airport terminals. Once at the terminals, follow the walking directions to reach the Theme Building in the center of World Way. A regular Metro fare is $1.75, including two hours of free transfers. The FlyAway bus provides non-stop service from Union Station and Van Nuys to LAX for $9.75.
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off directly at the airport terminals. From there, follow the walking directions to reach the Theme Building in the center of World Way. Taxi and ride-share fares from nearby areas typically range from $15 to $30, depending on distance and traffic.
Driving
If driving, follow signs to LAX and then to the Central Terminal Area. Parking is available in the parking structures adjacent to the terminals. From the parking structures, follow the pedestrian walkways to the Theme Building. Parking rates in the Central Terminal Area start at $9 for the first hour, and then $7 for each 30 minutes thereafter, up to a maximum daily rate of $60. Alternative parking options are available at off-site economy lots with free shuttles to the airport, with daily rates ranging from $7 to $17.
Local tips
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While the observation deck is currently closed, admire the building's unique architecture from the ground level.
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Visit during the evening to see the building illuminated with colorful spotlights.
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Take photos of the Theme Building from various angles to capture its distinctive shape and design.
Discover more about The Theme Building
The Theme Building at LAX is a celebrated example of mid-century modern architecture. Designed by a team of architects and engineers, including William Pereira, Charles Luckman, and Paul Williams, the building was initially envisioned as the central hub of a sprawling glass-domed airport. Although the full concept was scaled back, the Theme Building was erected as a reminder of the original plan and a symbol of LA's ambition as a city of the future.
The building's architecture features two 135-foot-high parabolic arches that create its signature flying saucer silhouette. Inside, the Theme Building once housed the Encounter Restaurant, which offered visitors a unique dining experience with panoramic views of the airfield. An observation deck provided 360-degree views of arriving and departing planes. While the restaurant and observation deck are currently closed, the building remains an iconic landmark and a testament to the optimism and innovation of the Space Age.
The Theme Building continues to capture the imagination of travelers and architecture enthusiasts alike. Its futuristic design has made it a popular subject for photographers and filmmakers, and it stands as a proud reminder of Los Angeles' dynamic postwar growth.
A brief summary to The Theme Building
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